Trail Kings

Trek Remedy 9.8

4 / 7

Despite its somewhat staid history, Trek has been introducing new mountain bikes--and ride-enhancing technology--at a feverish pace over the past few years. Much of that innovation is displayed on the Remedy, a crisp-pedaling, smooth-handling carbon bike with 6 inches of travel. The most impressive technology is the proprietary DRCV shock, designed by Trek and built by FOX. The damper uses a two-stage air spring that activates one chamber early in the shock's stroke and a second farther into the travel.

On larger hits, the DRCV felt plush and controlled--like shocks with much larger air sleeves--but without sagging on climbs or wallowing midstroke in less technical terrain. Surprisingly, it transitioned seamlessly between larger and smaller hits without a hiccup.

The Remedy's Active Braking Point (ABP) suspension deserves some credit, too. Using a main pivot concentric to the rear axle, it sucks up bumps beautifully and remains active while pedaling and braking. Because the system floats the shock between two linkages (many bikes use only one), engineers can fine-tune performance to a greater degree. Though it doesn't excel in one particular area, the Remedy is a smooth, efficient climber that rides high in its travel while capably handling all but the most rugged descents.

The bike's 68-degree head angle is standard for the category, but its bottom bracket sits nearly 14 inches off the ground--a bit higher than similar bikes. That geometry makes for responsive handling, but also results in a less stable ride, especially as you get upto speed, and on steep descents. We also noticed a hint of flex in the rear end. Accordingly, the bike shined brightest on terrain with moderate climbs and shallower downhills.

While the ride is inspiring, the Remedy could benefit even more from a few refinements. Notably, the dropper seatpost cable jammed in the suspension link--improved cable routing (or a few strategically placed zip-ties) would easily fix that. The bike's 26-inch-wide bar (660mm) also felt narrow. And as more riders consider running a single-ring setup, we should note that the bike's integrated bottom bracket and lack of chain-guide tabs mean it is not 1x10 friendly.

While the Remedy boasts some high-tech features, it still embodies the old-school spirit of trail riding: It's versatile and ready for nearly anything. Some trail bikes offer crisper pedaling, and others are more stable while blasting downhill, but the Remedy is impressive in its ability to tie those attributes together.